How to look great at this summer's festivals

Six Senses unwind into Portugal

A new Six Senses Resort is set to open in the UNESCO-protected World Heritage area of the Douro Valley in northern Portugal in 2015. It's the company's first European resort, after 11 successful openings across Asia and the Middle-East.

Following the formula of luxury accommodation and extensive spa facilities, the new property will also pay homage to Douro's reputation for abundant fresh produce and fine wine.

The expansive resort covers 19 acres and features 71 guest rooms, suites, and villas, some overlooking the winding River Douro that gives the valley its name. The spa is equipped with ten treatment rooms, heated indoor pool, a heated outdoor pool with bar (pictured), tennis courts and gym. In addition to offering several yogic courses, the spa will also be part of the Six Senses Visiting Practitioner Program, which features over 100 of the world's best wellness healers, practitioners and experts.

Advertisement

As well as a restaurant serving food made from produce from the resort's own gardens and surrounding area, there will be a Wine Academy on site, where guests will be guided through the varieties and styles from the surrounding valley by local winemakers and a dedicated sommelier.

The hotel itself will give a nod to 19th century architecture typical of the surrounding area, while a leading New York City design studio are heading up the plan for the interiors. Situated less than 90 miles from Oporto Airport, it looks as if a stay in a Six Senses resort could soon become a weekend treat, not just a long-haul splurge.